Lawmakers agree to strengthen DUI law

OLYMPIA — State lawmakers have agreed to a plan to more closely monitor drivers who are repeatedly drive under the influence.

A revised proposal released Wednesday would require interlock devices to be installed on someone’s vehicle if they are charged with a second impaired driving offense. The state would also begin a pilot program in three counties and two states to conduct daily alcohol monitoring on a person convicted of twice under the DUI law.

Democratic Rep. Roger Goodman said lawmakers have decided not to increase the mandatory minimum jail time for repeat offenders. Goodman said that proposal was expensive, although he said it may get more consideration in the future.

Senate and House negotiators said they have agreed to the bill’s language and are hoping to give it final Legislative approval as early as today.